No matter what a person uses a microphone for, it helps to have the best quality possible. Sometimes, the best equipment can only do so much. Using an isolation shield of some sort will help keep everything sounding just like it should.
The best microphone isolation shield options out there will block out outside noises, echoes, and more. It might not seem like much, but when comparing to recordings done without a shield, the difference is pretty noticeable, even to casual listeners.
Top 7 Best Mic Isolation Shields on The Market Today
Here is a list of some of the most effective mic isolation shields on the market today. Because let’s face it, not everyone has a recording studio in their homes or a soundproof room for that matter.
Plus, I talk about how these things work and also how well mic isolation shields work when doing voice or music recording by following the link.
1. Aston Microphones Halo Portable Microphone Reflection Filter
Why buy?
- A unique design that isolates vocals better than most
- The choice of many professionals
- Covers horizontal and vertical planes
Sometimes, simplicity is all anyone needs to perform at the highest level. Many consider this to be one of the best isolation shields out there today. Targeted for any type of vocals, this shield wraps around enough to prevent any other sounds from distracting.
What makes it stand out from a lot of its competitors is that it covers the horizontal and vertical planes where sounds can come from. As long as the microphone is installed properly, this will isolate any outside sounds and allow a person to get a very clear sound overall.
With this design, the isolation and full tone work well with music, voice recordings, and more. A lot of people can’t believe just how much of a difference it can make when using such a relatively simple device.
It looks pretty small in pictures, but the one downside is that it doesn’t fold up at all. It’s not the biggest thing in the world, but it does make traveling around with it somewhat of a struggle. It’s just an awkward shape that has some challenges, but most people find a way to make it work.
Not everyone is a fan of the pricing, but it has enough professional endorsements to remain one of the best options out there. If it fits into the budget, definitely give it a look.
2. Monoprice 602650 microphone isolation shield
Why Buy?
- Some of the best foam available for killing any sound
- Folds up for easy traveling
- Easy to adjust for different setups
To many people, this is the go-to isolation shield for anyone who is just starting out. It might not be the absolute best of the best, but it does an excellent job at an extremely affordable price. Monoprice has made sure that they have everything covered for various situations, and it can even be customized in some ways to help out with performance.
The shield looks a little bulky at first, but it’s easy to fold up and take anywhere. Once unfolded, it can be set up in different ways to offer more isolation or less. On the inside walls, there is a high-density foam that does a very good job of killing any unwanted sounds. It’s not going to do a ton vertically, but it kills a lot of horizontal sounds.
On the outside, it has a durable metal casing. This also provides a good amount of isolation, and also some durability for people who travel around with it a lot.
At such a low price point, it makes sense for any person who is looking to see the difference a shield makes to at least give it a try. Eventually, someone might need to upgrade it, but it does a very good job and has enough versatility to handle different tasks.
Click Here for the Current Price for the Monoprice microphone isolation shield (602650) from Amazon.
3. Lyxpro VRI-20 Fordable Isolation Shield Vocal Recording Panel
Why buy?
- Many different size options for any budget
- Curved design provides tight enclosure
- Premium build and look
For a more compact design that is very inexpensive, this completely foldable option from Lyxpro can provide some great recording conditions. Those looking for a very clear sound can have it set up and ready to go in a matter of minutes. On the outside, it is a very durable aluminum that helps protect everything inside. The inside of the shield has very thick sound absorbing foam.
One thing that makes this very portable is that it is one of the lightest options available. It weighs just around six pounds, and since it’s foldable, it is easy to throw into a bag and take anywhere. The outer shell protects it from damage; even it goes through a little bit of abuse.
Another great feature is that they offer many different sizes depending on what the person needs. The mini starts at $30, and it goes all the way up to the jumbo, which is around $130. A mini might not do the job for a lot of people, but it is worth tinkering with a bit to see as an inexpensive starter option.
4. Sound Isolation Recording Shield Box – Pyle PSIB27
Why buy?
- Very affordable
- Weighs right around two pounds
- Provides horizontal and vertical coverage
For a very closed off area, a sound recording booth box might be one way to go. A lot of people use these for podcasts because they can stay in one area and not have to worry about anything too complicated as far as set up goes.
Since Pyle doesn’t use anything in regards to metal, the price stays pretty low, as well. The high-density foam is still very strong and versatile, and it gives a person an option not to have to spend a ton of money.
Some people think that professionally speaking, this just isn’t enough to get the job done. It might not look the part compared to others out there, but it’s something that might get the job done for occasional recording. Not only that, but it’s a good starter option for younger children or adults who aren’t sure just how often they will record.
Without the metal weighing things down, the entire recording box only weighs around two pounds. It’s also durable enough that people feel like they will get a good return in their investment.
Click Here for the Amazon Current price for the Pyle PSIB27 Sound Isolation Recording Shield Box
5. sE Electronics SPACE Specialized Portable Acoustic Control Environment
Why Buy
- Premium look and feel
- A total of 10 layers of sound killing material
- Extremely durable
When counting layers, it is hard to find something as detailed as this one. sE Electronics has released a very premium looking shield that works in nearly any environment. It’s another option that a lot of professionals use, and although it is on the higher side price-wise, many think it’s worth the investment.
There are 10 different layers of materials to eliminate all the sound around the area. The goal is to not only isolate the sound, but make it sound as pure as possible inside the enclosed area. It’s easy to adjust to fit right in front of any person, which is always positive for longer recording sessions.
Consistency is another big key with this setup. Some competitors don’t have that same level of consistency, delivering quality sound each and every time. What might work in one set up won’t work in the other, and it just makes for a challenging recording time.
This is one of the most durable options out there, and as long as it’s not abused, it can last for decades. They opted for some of the best materials out there, which makes it justifiable with the price.
6. Auralex Acoustics MudGuard V2
Why buy?
- A unique convex design that helps to redirect unwanted sound energy
- Very easy to mount to the wall or a stand
- Different positioning options for a customized sound
For a shield that looks a little different than the rest, consider this option from Auralex Acoustics. It has a convex shape that might not seem like it is the best for shielding outside sound, but it works very well. Some people swear by the setup, while others are at least willing to check it out.
Instead of the shield closing in, it curves out slightly. That might seem like a bad thing, but it redirects internal sound energy away from the microphone when it is used this way.
Other than the unique shape, it works about the same as other options out there. It’s easy to quickly set up for recording, and very capable of going anywhere with it.
If there is a complaint, it’s that the sound reduces the upper mids and high frequencies a little too much. That’s perfectly fine for a recording with a lot of lower mids, but just keep that in mind if you were looking for a different type of presentation.
Click here for the current Amazon price for the Auralex Acoustics MudGuard V2.
7. CAD Audio Acousti-Shield AS32
Why Buy
- Priced affordably for premium parts
- Best overall value on the market right now
- Works well in many different settings
Since CAD Audio released this option, it has continually rated as one of the very best. That’s because, for just over $100, it provides professional quality that many people are blown away with. Made of high-quality material that makes any type of audio sound better, it’s something that professionals use daily.
The shield is made up of stainless steel on the outside, with over 50 millimeters of high-density acoustic foam and a board of acoustic wool to count on. This combination makes everything sound just a little bit crisper. Another innovation that they use is all the ways that the shield adjusts. With full customization, every room might need something a little different set up.
Some people have it set up on a table, but it can also mount to a wall for stand up use, speaking or singing into the mic. It’s built to last, and many people love all that it brings to the table.
When looking at negatives, there isn’t anything to complain about too much. Some would like just a little bit more vertical protection against sounds, but that is negated quite a bit thanks to having the customizable options opening up and closing the shield.
Out of all the ones listed in this article, this is the top recommendation. It’s not the cheapest, but most people can afford something of this quality. Unless needed for something specific, try this one out first and see what it brings to the table.
Click here for the Current Amazon price for the CAD Audio Acousti-Shield AS32.
Final Thoughts on Isolation Shields
No matter what type of recording a person is doing at home or in a studio, there’s no reason not to have a microphone isolation shield of some sort. The sound quality is just different when a shield is not in use, and it can distract from everything a person is trying to accomplish.
As the list above shows, a person doesn’t have to feel like they need to spend a lot of money to get something that is high-quality. For well under $100, there’s something for anyone to improve their set up. Those looking for the best of the best will need to spend a little more, but just about everyone agrees that it pays off in the end.
Every shield featured above, if ordered online, is returnable for a full refund. This takes some of the fear out of ordering online. It’s hard to shop for something like this without trying it out first, which is why all of these companies encourage people to do exactly that. Mess around with different setups and see if it’s truly the best fit before throwing the box away